3 answers
Koryn
Student
Underwood, Iowa
1
Question
Updated
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What Should I expect as an upcoming radiology student?
I was recently accepted into a radiology program, and I am not sure what to expect. It will be my second year of college, but my first year in this program.
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3 answers
James Hanson
Pediatric Intensive Care Physician; Consultant
160
Answers
Oakland, California
Updated
James’s Answer
Radiology technologists are wonderful and important members of the healthcare team. You should expect to learn a lot about anatomy, the physics of imaging, process management, and interpersonal skills. As you learn, you may find you like to be a generalist, or you may feel the pull to be an expert in one modality (ultrasound, MRI, nuclear medicine...).
Try to explore as many options and experiences as you can, and allow what gives you joy and satisfaction to move you. Who knows? You may decide you want to become a Radiologist!
Try to explore as many options and experiences as you can, and allow what gives you joy and satisfaction to move you. Who knows? You may decide you want to become a Radiologist!
Ashley Lowe
College Instructor/Clinical Coordinator
62
Answers
Minnesott Beach, NC
Updated
Ashley’s Answer
First, congratulations, being accepted into a radiology program is a big accomplishment.
As an upcoming radiology student, you can expect the pace to be faster than in general college courses. The material becomes more focused and detailed, especially in anatomy, positioning, radiation physics, and patient care. It’s not just memorizing bones anymore — you’ll learn precise positioning, technical factors, image critique, and why every decision matters. Consistency will be key. The students who do best review material daily instead of waiting until exam week.
You should also expect clinical rotations to become a major part of your education. Clinicals can feel intimidating at first, but they are where confidence grows. The first few weeks may feel overwhelming because you’re learning equipment, hospital flow, and patient interaction all at once. That’s normal. Over time, muscle memory develops and things begin to click.
Another thing to expect is responsibility. Radiography requires attention to detail and professionalism. You’ll be working with real patients in real healthcare environments, so communication, punctuality, and attitude matter just as much as technical skill.
It’s challenging, but it’s manageable. Most students feel unsure at the beginning and then look back a year later amazed at how much they’ve grown. If you stay organized, ask questions, and treat clinicals like an opportunity instead of a test, you’ll adjust faster than you think.
As an upcoming radiology student, you can expect the pace to be faster than in general college courses. The material becomes more focused and detailed, especially in anatomy, positioning, radiation physics, and patient care. It’s not just memorizing bones anymore — you’ll learn precise positioning, technical factors, image critique, and why every decision matters. Consistency will be key. The students who do best review material daily instead of waiting until exam week.
You should also expect clinical rotations to become a major part of your education. Clinicals can feel intimidating at first, but they are where confidence grows. The first few weeks may feel overwhelming because you’re learning equipment, hospital flow, and patient interaction all at once. That’s normal. Over time, muscle memory develops and things begin to click.
Another thing to expect is responsibility. Radiography requires attention to detail and professionalism. You’ll be working with real patients in real healthcare environments, so communication, punctuality, and attitude matter just as much as technical skill.
It’s challenging, but it’s manageable. Most students feel unsure at the beginning and then look back a year later amazed at how much they’ve grown. If you stay organized, ask questions, and treat clinicals like an opportunity instead of a test, you’ll adjust faster than you think.
Fenton Groff, BS, RT (R) (ARRT)
Radiographer
9
Answers
Atlantic City, New Jersey
Updated
Fenton’s Answer
Hi Koryn,
You've chosen a fantastic path in radiology! It's great to hear you've completed a year of study. The more you learn about healthcare and social sciences, the better prepared you'll be for the challenges ahead.
With over 20 years in diagnostic imaging, my top tip for you is to master the basics of patient positioning and radiation techniques. I always kept a small guidebook on hand for tricky cases, like skull series, although these are less common now with advanced CT scans. Always be skilled, professional, and kind to your patients. Be patient with them, and don't let others rush you. Speed will come with practice. Once you pass your boards, the sky's the limit. Best of luck and blessings to you.
Fenton G. RT
You've chosen a fantastic path in radiology! It's great to hear you've completed a year of study. The more you learn about healthcare and social sciences, the better prepared you'll be for the challenges ahead.
With over 20 years in diagnostic imaging, my top tip for you is to master the basics of patient positioning and radiation techniques. I always kept a small guidebook on hand for tricky cases, like skull series, although these are less common now with advanced CT scans. Always be skilled, professional, and kind to your patients. Be patient with them, and don't let others rush you. Speed will come with practice. Once you pass your boards, the sky's the limit. Best of luck and blessings to you.
Fenton G. RT